Banana Split Princess to be selected during pageant prior to Latrobe festival

A pageant will now be part of becoming the Banana Split Princess, who will reign over Latrobe’s annual Banana Split Celebration.

The pageant on June 2 at Latrobe Elementary School is open to any Derry, Latrobe or Ligonier student between ages 9 and 11, according to the Greater Latrobe-Laurel Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce.

Applications are being accepted.

The 2018 princess is Piper Anke, a Valley School of Ligonier student.

“The chamber of commerce hopes to provide the Banana Split Princess opportunities to learn about the local business community during her reign,” said chamber president Briana Tomack. “We hope this will foster connections between students and businesses in our neighborhood.”

Contestants must write a 100-word essay about why they should be crowned Banana Split Princess, submit a headshot and answer some additional questions. The pageant will include an introduction, interview, formal wear competition and most-photogenic contest. The winner will receive a $500 scholarship.

The princess will ride on a float in Latrobe’s Fourth of July parade and be present at the Banana Split Celebration Aug 23-25.

An informational meeting and first rehearsal will be held April 26 at Latrobe Elementary, followed by a second rehearsal May 15.

Applications are available at schools or on the forms section of bananasplitfest.com. For more information, email princess@bananasplitfest.com or call 724-537-2671.